Tulsi Gabbard changes tune on controversial intelligence tool following GOP lobbying

Tulsi Gabbard, who has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Director of National Intelligence, has recently reversed her stance on a controversial issue after lobbying efforts from Republican senators. Gabbard, who previously opposed the re-authorization of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) while serving as a Democrat in the House of Representatives, now believes that this section is crucial for gathering foreign intelligence on non-U.S. persons abroad.

In a statement provided by a Trump transition spokesperson, Gabbard explained her change in position, stating that significant reforms have been enacted to address her concerns about insufficient protections for civil liberties, particularly regarding the FBI’s misuse of warrantless search powers on American citizens. She emphasized the importance of striking a balance between national security and protecting constitutional rights, and pledged to uphold Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights while maintaining vital national security tools like Section 702.

Republican senators, including Sen. Tom Cotton and Sen. James Lankford, played a key role in convincing Gabbard of the importance of FISA’s section 702. Sen. Cotton, who chairs the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, confirmed that Gabbard supports Section 702 as recently amended and will follow the law to support its reauthorization as DNI.

Sen. Lankford raised concerns about Gabbard’s previous opposition to section 702, noting that she had voted against it during her time in Congress. He highlighted the importance of her handling of this issue as DNI, questioning how she plans to navigate her new role as a supporter of section 702 authority.

While most GOP senators are supportive of FISA, some have been vocal critics, including Sen. Mike Lee and Sen. Rand Paul. These critics have raised concerns about potential infringements on civil liberties and access to Americans’ communications without a warrant under section 702.

Despite Gabbard’s change of heart on section 702, some Republican senators remain skeptical of her newfound support for intelligence gathering. However, there is no indication that this will impact their overall support for her nomination as DNI.

As Senate Majority Leader John Thune pushes for the confirmation of Trump nominees on the day of his inauguration, conservative senators are eager to have all national security nominees, including Gabbard, confirmed on Trump’s first day in office. The group is focused on ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining national security priorities under the new administration.

In conclusion, Tulsi Gabbard’s reversal on FISA section 702 highlights the complex balance between national security and civil liberties in the intelligence community. Her change of stance has garnered support from Republican senators, who are working to ensure a seamless confirmation process for all national security nominees in the new administration.